Male menopause is a real thing, despite many people assuming it’s just another funny word for the change of life. Similar to menopause in women, male menopause refers to when a man’s testosterone production starts to decline and he experiences side effects as a result. The overall reduction in testosterone means that the body no longer produces enough of the hormone to support physical and sexual health. Although relatively rare, male menopause is increasingly becoming more recognized and understood. If you are a man over 40 or 50, you might wonder if your changing appearance is because of hitting “the change” or something more serious like male menopause. If you feel like something isn’t right with your body, here’s a look at some key signs pointing to male menopause:
Irritability
One of the most common signs of male menopause is increased irritability. Some men notice that they are more emotional than usual and struggle to control their reactions. If you notice that you are snapping at loved ones more than you would like, or losing your temper more often than you did when you were younger, this could be a sign of male menopause. Male menopause often occurs alongside a reduction in serotonin, the chemical responsible for regulating mood. If you find that you are more likely to feel anxious or depressed, then this may be a sign of a low serotonin level due to a reduction in testosterone.
Depression
Another symptom of reduced testosterone is depression. Hormone levels naturally drop as we grow older, but this is usually countered by an increase in serotonin as we age. If your serotonin levels are not increasing fast enough, it can lead to feelings of sadness or a depletion of energy. Although most people experience a dip in mood as they age, the symptoms of depression and low energy levels in men with low testosterone can be more severe. If you have been feeling unusually sad or have noticed a lack of interest in activities that you used to enjoy, then these may be signs of reduced testosterone. A reduction in testosterone can also increase the risk of developing anxiety and/or panic attacks, so be sure to keep an eye on how you’re feeling.
Changes in sleep and mood
As well as being accompanied by irritability and sadness, male menopause can cause changes in sleep patterns and mood. Increased fatigue and poor sleep patterns are common during male menopause, as lower testosterone levels often cause restless leg syndrome and other leg cramps, which can interrupt sleep. Additionally, a lack of sleep can exacerbate mood changes and inability to concentrate. Men who experience these symptoms may find themselves unable to focus or perform at work or at home. Additionally, male menopause sometimes causes mood swings, whereby a person will feel happy one minute and sad the next. Mood swings during male menopause are often attributed to changes in serotonin, which can be triggered by lower testosterone.
Loss of sex drive and erections
Another key sign of male menopause is a drop in sex drive. In fact, testosterone is the hormone that is responsible for sexual desire in men. When testosterone levels decline, it can lead to a lack of interest in sex, difficulty reaching orgasm or even erectile dysfunction. This is caused by a decline in testosterone production in the testicles, leading to a reduced amount of the male sex hormone reaching the bloodstream. A reduction in testosterone can also cause vaginal dryness in women and make it more difficult for couples to conceive a child. If you are experiencing a drop in sex drive or other sexual health issues, such as difficulty reaching orgasm, then these could be signs of declining testosterone.
Hot flashes, sweating and night sweats
Another symptom of male menopause is increased sweating, particularly around the chest and armpits, along with night sweats. Many men experience a drop in testosterone during their forties, which can result in hot flashes and sweating, particularly around the chest and armpits. This is because reduced testosterone can cause reduced blood flow, which can lead to an increase in body temperature. Additionally, as we age, our bodies produce less estrogen, which helps to regulate body temperature. Therefore, when estrogen levels fall, it becomes more difficult to regulate body temperature. This can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, which are often experienced by both men and women as they age.
Changes in mood, appetite and weight
A reduction in testosterone can also cause changes in mood, appetite and weight. One of the most common symptoms of reduced testosterone is feeling less energetic, which can lead to changes in mood. Many men report feeling less happy than they did when they were younger as their testosterone levels decline. Additionally, a reduction in testosterone can cause changes in appetite. Men with low testosterone levels often report reduced appetites, leading to weight loss or difficulty gaining weight. Some men also report increased appetites and, consequently, put on weight.
Conclusion
Most people experience some degree of change in their body during middle age, but there are significant differences between normal ageing and male menopause. If you notice symptoms that are out of the ordinary for your age, it is important to get them checked out by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions. Although there are many different signs of male menopause, the symptoms are often attributed to a reduction in testosterone. If you feel like something isn’t right with your body, here’s a look at some key signs pointing to male menopause.